Caught on camera: Kids risk lives on Blackburn rail tracks (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Caught on camera: Kids risk lives on Blackburn rail tracks

12:09pm Friday 19th March 2010 in

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THESE pictures show youngsters risking their lives by playing on a railway line in Blackburn.

The images were captured by a passer-by in Pleasington, and police said there had been a rise in reports of trespass on the railway in March.

PC Ric Herbert warned children to stay away from the tracks.

He said: “We have seen some problems around Pleasington recently, with youngsters using the track as a shortcut, and we need children to be aware of the risks they are taking.

“Anyone who trespasses on the railway is taking a gamble with their own lives.

“The railway is an inherently dangerous environment, with high-speed trains and electric currents.

“It should never be treated as a playground, or somewhere to hang about. This Easter, stay safe and stay off the railway.”

He said that in the run-up to, and during, the Easter holidays, officers will be increasing patrols in the area.

And he said police would not hesitate to take action against anyone causing problems, or trespassing on the railway network.

He added: “My message to youngsters is simple – stay safe and stay out of trouble.

“If you are caught trespassing on the railway, we will do everything in our power to prosecute you and put you before the courts.”

If you have information about any incidents on the railway, call British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.